Postdoctoral Researcher in Cell and Molecular Biology

The Department of Biological and Environmental Science is currently seeking to recruit candidates to the position of

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER, CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

for a fixed-term from January 2, 2023, or as agreed, untill June 30, 2025.

We are looking for a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with demonstrated experience in microbial/cell cultures, genetic analyses, and/or understanding in phage resistance and CRISPR-Cas adaptation studies in bacteria to join the international research project "Ecology of bacteriophages in mucosa during vertebrate host lifespan".

The main aim or this project is to describe the ecology of phage bacterium interactions in mucosa to understand how phage communities affect our health during lifespan. We will study how the mucosal environment influences phage infectivity and the bacterial resistance mechanisms against phages, and how age-associated changes in mucosal surfaces influence phage-mucosa interaction. The main task of the post doctoral scientist is to perform phage-bacterium interaction studies and coevolution experiments in cell cultures, and take part in experiments with zebra fish. Expertise in microbiological and/or cell biology methodologies is thus needed, and skills in bioinformatics are considered an asset. 

You are the person we are looking for if you have 

1) Doctoral degree in a relevant field

2) Experience in microbiology (working with phages or other viruses) and/or cell culture

The duties, qualification requirements and language skills of a Postdoctoral Researcher are stipulated by the University of Jyväskylä Regulations and language skills guidelines. A good command of English is required and a proficiency to teach in English will be considered beneficial. The PhD degree required for the position must have been completed before starting the position.

What does the University of Jyväskylä offer as an employer?

At the University of Jyväskylä, you are a recognized member of our community with a unique opportunity to influence international research. You get to participate in our international and multidisciplinary community where the welfare of each individual is important. At the University of Jyväskylä, we offer a great and lively campus area with opportunities to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Finland has a high standard of living, with free schooling (also in English), affordable childcare, good family benefits, and healthcare. Jyväskylä is located in central Finland in the Finnish Lake District having excellent opportunities for different nature, outdoor, and sports activities. The city of Jyväskylä is a major educational center with a large student population and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. For more information regarding the University of Jyväskylä, the City of Jyväskylä and living in Finland, see the University's International Staff Guide. 

The annual salary range will be approximately 41,800 - 49,000 EUR (gross income, including holiday bonus), depending on the qualifications and experience of the candidate. 

How to apply?

The application documents that should be included in PDF format:

1. Curriculum vitae (CV), composed according to good scientific practice and considering the template for researcher´s curriculum vitae by The Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity and including contact information of two academics who can provide reference letters
   1. Cover letter including a statement of research interests.
   2. A numbered list of publications
   3. Relevant certificates / diplomas (or date of completion the PhD)

Applicants are kindly asked to submit their applications using the online application form by August 15, 2022.

For further details, please contact Associate Professor Lotta-Riina Sundberg, lotta-riina.sundberg@jyu.fi. 

The research in the Department focuses on three core areas: evolutionary biology, natural resources and environment, and biological nanoscience. The Department building, Ambiotica, is an integral part of the University of Jyväskylä's Ylistönrinne Mathematics and Science Research Complex, which includes buildings of chemistry, physics and nanoscience. Ambiotica houses high quality laboratories for bioscience and experimental facilities for a wide range of biological and chemical analyses as well as highly motivated laboratory personnel.

The University of Jyväskylä is a human-centered environment of 2,500 experts and 14,500 students. Our goal is to create wisdom and wellbeing for all. JYU's naturally beautiful campus is located in the heart of the city of Jyväskylä. JYU is the third largest employer in Central Finland.